April 18

Samuel Earl "Wahoo Sam" Crawford (1880–1968) was an American Major League Baseball outfielder renowned for his powerful hitting and speed. He led the league in triples seven times and holds the record for the most career triples with 309. A key member of the Detroit Tigers alongside Ty Cobb, he helped the team reach three consecutive World Series from 1907 to 1909. Crawford was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1957 in recognition of his historic achievements. After retiring as a player, he served as a minor league coach and major league umpire, continuing his lifelong involvement in the sport. His legacy endures as one of the game's most prolific hitters and a pioneer of early-20th-century baseball.

Bertha Isaacs was born in 1900 and began her career as a dedicated teacher in the Bahamas. She excelled in tennis and represented her country in regional competitions. Transitioning into politics, she became a pioneering female leader and campaigned tirelessly for women’s suffrage and equality. Through her combined roles in education, sports, and governance, she forged new opportunities for women in public life. Isaacs passed away in 1997, leaving a lasting legacy in Bahamian society.

John F. Wiley was an American football guard and coach who made significant contributions to college football. He played at the collegiate level before transitioning to coaching roles that spanned several decades. Wiley was known for his strategic insight and mentorship of young athletes. His leadership helped shape the programs he led and fostered a passion for the game among his players. He remained a respected figure in football circles long after his retirement.

Doug Insole was a talented batsman whose elegant technique made him a key player for both Essex and the England national team. During a playing career that spanned the post-war era, he scored prolific runs and earned a reputation for consistency and grace at the crease. Following his retirement, Insole contributed to the sport’s governance, holding leadership roles that shaped cricket policy and development. His lifelong dedication to the game influenced players and administrators alike.

Born in Mainz, Germany, in 1942, Jochen Rindt began his racing career in motorcycles before switching to cars. He debuted in Formula One in 1964, driving for Cooper, Brabham, and later Lotus with marked success. Rindt secured six Grand Prix victories and led the 1970 championship standings with his fearless style. Tragically, he died in a practice crash at Monza in September 1970, weeks before the season finale. Despite his untimely death, he amassed enough points to claim the World Drivers' Championship after his death. Rindt remains a legendary figure in motor racing history.

Born in 1958 in Barbados, Malcolm Marshall dominated international cricket with his exceptional pace and swing. He took 376 Test wickets for the West Indies between 1978 and 1992. Renowned for his aggressive bowling style, he achieved 22 five-wicket hauls in Test matches. After retiring, Marshall served as a coach, sharing his expertise with young bowlers. He was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in 2009. Marshall's skill and competitive spirit left an indelible mark on the sport before his untimely death in 1999.

Willie Roaf played eleven seasons with the New Orleans Saints and four with the Kansas City Chiefs. He was selected to 11 Pro Bowls and earned seven All-Pro honors for his outstanding performance on the offensive line. Known for his combination of size, athleticism, and technique, Roaf protected quarterbacks and opened lanes for running backs. He helped lead the Saints to their first playoff appearance in franchise history. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2012, he is celebrated as one of the greatest tackles in NFL history. After retiring, Roaf has been involved in community outreach and youth football programs.

Derrick Brooks spent his entire career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, earning a reputation as one of the league's most consistent defensive players. He won Super Bowl XXXVII and was named Super Bowl MVP alongside quarterback Brad Johnson. Brooks was selected to 11 Pro Bowls and received eight first-team All-Pro honors. Known for his speed, instincts, and leadership, he anchored the Buccaneers' defense for over a decade. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014, he solidified his legacy as one of the greatest linebackers ever. After retiring, Brooks founded the Derrick Brooks Charities, focusing on youth development and education programs.

Haile Gebrselassie is an Ethiopian distance runner considered one of the greatest of all time. He won back-to-back Olympic gold medals in the 10,000 meters at the 1996 Atlanta and 2000 Sydney Games. He set numerous world records on the track in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters as well as in road races. After retiring from track, he won multiple major city marathons, including Berlin and Dubai. Off the track, he has been involved in business ventures and humanitarian efforts in Ethiopia.

Miguel Cabrera is a Venezuelan professional baseball player known for his powerful hitting and consistent batting. He made his MLB debut with the Florida Marlins in 2003 and won a World Series in the same year. Cabrera joined the Detroit Tigers in 2008 and became one of baseball's elite hitters. He won the American League MVP award in 2012 and 2013, capturing the Triple Crown in 2012. With over 2,800 career hits and 500 home runs, he ranks among the game's best hitters. Cabrera is celebrated for his durability, technique, and contributions to the sport.

Łukasz Fabiański is a Polish footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for West Ham United and the Poland national team. He began his career at Legia Warsaw before moving to Arsenal in 2007, winning the FA Cup twice. Fabiański transferred to Swansea City in 2014 and then to West Ham United in 2018, where he won the Europa Conference League in 2023. He has earned over 60 caps for Poland and represented his country at multiple European Championships and World Cups. Known for his shot-stopping, composure, and leadership, Fabiański is one of Poland's most consistent goalkeepers.